A Usability Evaluation of a Digital Malay Language Guidebook for Foreign Learners

Abstract

This study presents a usability evaluation of a digital Malay language guidebook, Voices of Malaysia: Speak Like a Local, which was developed to support foreign learners in acquiring basic communication skills for everyday interactions. Existing Malay language learning materials often emphasize formal grammar while lacking practical application, pronunciation guides, and inclusive features, which may limit their accessibility and relevance for beginner learners. To address these limitations, the guidebook was designed using simple, context-based expressions and incorporates QR codes that provide access to audio pronunciation and visual demonstration of mouth movements. A quantitative approach was used using pre- and post-survey questionnaires given to 36 participants, comprising foreign learners and Malaysian respondents. Descriptive statistical analysis showed a high level of user satisfaction across key usability dimensions, including ease of understanding (M = 4.58), clarity of instructions (M = 4.64), and usability of QR code features (M = 4.56). The guidebook has also received a strong positive response in terms of improving learners’ confidence and supporting real-life communication. The findings show that the integration of multimodal features improves user experience and engagement, making the guidebook a practical and user-friendly resource for beginner-level learning of the Malay language. This study contributes to the development of accessible and context-based digital language learning materials, especially for foreign learners in multicultural environments.